Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour in New Orleans

If you’re drawn to the more colorful, less polished side of New Orleans, then the Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour might just be your new favorite way to experience the city. This tour isn’t your typical sightseeing stroll—it’s a lively, adults-only journey into the city’s darker, more intriguing past and present. From ghostly tales to notorious streets, this tour promises a mix of history, folklore, and fun, all guided by a professional who clearly loves sharing New Orleans’ secrets.

What we particularly like about this tour is its focus on stories that aren’t usually found in glossy travel brochures. You’ll get a taste of the city’s notorious reputation, along with some fascinating facts, all presented with a hint of humor and a lot of passion. Plus, the tour’s small group size adds a cozy, VIP feeling that makes learning about the city’s underground all the more engaging.

A possible consideration is that the tour is adults-only, which makes it unsuitable for families or travelers with young children. Also, the tour involves some walking and moderate physical activity, so it’s best for those comfortable on their feet. If you’re curious about New Orleans’ more edgy side and appreciate storytelling that goes beyond the usual tourist fare, this tour is a fantastic fit.

Who should consider this? History buffs, folklore lovers, adults interested in the city’s naughty tales, and travelers looking for a fun, intimate experience that reveals the real, sometimes unruly heart of New Orleans.

Key Points

• The tour covers the French Quarter’s darker stories, from pirates to legendary femmes fatales.
• Guides are lauded for their knowledge, humor, and passion, making stories come alive.
• The tour includes a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane drink at the start, adding a fun, adult-focused touch.
• Small group sizes keep the experience personalized and engaging.
• The tour lasts around two hours, making it a perfect quick dive into New Orleans’ shadowy history.
• It’s best suited for travelers aged 17 and up, with a moderate physical level required.

A Deep Dive into the Saints and Sinners Experience

Meeting Up and First Impressions

The tour kicks off inside The Voodoo Lounge at 718 N Rampart St, where you’re greeted with a fun perk: a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane in a souvenir cup. Being able to sip your drink as you start exploring the streets helps set a relaxed, adult tone. You’re welcome to bring your drink along, which adds a lively, informal vibe to the experience. This initial meet-up is casual but well-organized, giving you a chance to get to know your guide and fellow travelers.

The French Quarter Phantoms

Your adventure begins with a quick stop at the French Quarter Phantoms ticket office, a fitting starting point for a tour filled with ghostly tales and supernatural lore. The guide sets the tone here, hinting at the dark stories to come, from haunted buildings to city legends. This opening segment, although brief, primes you for the spooky stories ahead.

St. Louis Cathedral and Its Hidden Stories

Next, the group visits the iconic St. Louis Cathedral. Inside, you’ll find a small prayer chapel dedicated to Henriette Dellile, who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family—the first female-led black convent in the U.S. This stop layers spiritual history with social progress, illustrating that even in a tour about sinners, there’s room for the city’s moments of hope and resilience. The guide’s storytelling often intertwines these contrasting themes, making the experience richer and more nuanced.

The Hotel Villa Convento: The Rumored Inspiration for “House of the Rising Sun”

The next stop is the Hotel Villa Convento, a building with a colorful past as a brothel, allegedly inspiring the famous song “House of the Rising Sun.” Though the claim isn’t verified, it adds a tantalizing flavor of legend. The guide will share stories of past occupants and the building’s notorious reputation, giving you a sense of the city’s lively, sometimes gritty, history. This stop highlights how the city’s seedier side has shaped its cultural identity.

French Market: From Pirates to Female Serial Killers

Your journey continues at the French Market, formerly Galliten Street, infamous for its pirates, gamblers, street gangs, sex workers, and even “Bricktop,” a notorious female serial killer. This area was once wild, unruly, and dangerous, and the guide’s stories paint a picture of a city that thrived on its rough-and-tumble reputation. Reviewers often mention how the guide brings these stories to life, making the history exciting and approachable. One noted that the guide’s enthusiasm made the tales even more engaging.

Authenticity and Atmosphere

Throughout the tour, the guide’s ability to weave history with local legends keeps the experience lively and authentic. Wolfy and other guides are praised for their knowledge, storytelling flair, and their capacity to make history feel like a series of fascinating stories rather than dry facts. Several reviews mention how much fun they had, with some travelers calling it the “best tour” they experienced in New Orleans.

Practical Details and Value

At $21 per person, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the quality of storytelling and the personalized feel of the small group (max 14 travelers). The two-hour duration makes it manageable for most travelers, fitting well into a busy day of sightseeing. Since it’s bookable 18 days in advance on average, it’s wise to secure your spot early, particularly during peak seasons.

What’s Included and What’s Not

Your ticket includes a professional guide and the initial drink, but alcohol is purchased separately. Gratuities aren’t included, so if you enjoyed the guide’s storytelling, tipping is appreciated. There’s no hotel pickup or drop-off, so plan to meet at the Voodoo Lounge, which is conveniently near public transportation. Moderate walking is required, so comfortable shoes are recommended.

The Reviews Say It All

With an overall rating of 4.7 out of 5 from 117 reviews, travelers are pretty enthusiastic. Many highlight the guide’s knowledge and humor, with comments like “Wolfy, our guide, was so knowledgeable and passionate” and “the stories made the history so much more engaging.” Some note the weather—rain can dampen certain moments—but the guide’s effort to make the best of it gets recognized.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults who enjoy stories of the city’s darker corners—ghosts, legends, and seedy history. It’s ideal if you appreciate lively storytelling, small group intimacy, and a bit of a naughty thrill. Travelers with a curiosity about both history and folklore will find this tour hits the mark. It’s not suited for kids or those seeking a family-friendly overview, but for adults wanting a taste of New Orleans’ wild side, it’s a real treat.

The Sum Up

The Shared 2 Hours Saints and Sinners Walking Tour offers an engaging, authentic peek into New Orleans’ less polished history. With knowledgeable guides who mix humor, drama, and facts, the tour transforms familiar streets into a lively storytelling stage. The inclusion of local legends, haunted sites, and notorious tales makes it stand out as a memorable experience. Plus, the price point offers solid value for a fun, well-organized adventure with plenty of personality.

Whether you’re a history lover, folklore enthusiast, or just looking for an entertaining way to learn about New Orleans’ colorful past, this tour delivers. It’s especially suited for curious adults eager to explore beyond the typical tourist spots and into the city’s shadowy corners. Just remember to dress comfortably and bring your sense of humor—you’ll leave with stories to tell and a new appreciation for the city’s mischievous side.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
No, this is an adults-only tour, designed for travelers aged 17 and up. It includes mature themes and stories that aren’t appropriate for children.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately two hours, making it a manageable way to get a quick yet meaningful dose of New Orleans’ darker history.

Where does the tour start and end?
The tour begins at The Voodoo Lounge, 718 N Rampart St, and ends at Jackson Square. It’s located conveniently near public transportation.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended as the tour involves moderate walking on city streets. Bring a light jacket if the weather calls for it, and don’t forget your camera.

Are drinks included?
The tour includes a buy-one-get-one-free Hurricane at the start, but alcoholic drinks are available for purchase along the way.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, with a full refund. Less than 24 hours’ notice means no refund, so plan accordingly.

In summary, this Saints and Sinners tour offers a lively, authentic glimpse into the seedier, more mysterious side of New Orleans. With passionate guides, compelling stories, and a lively atmosphere, it’s a great choice for adults who want to explore the city’s underground tales with a bit of humor and flair. Perfect for a short but memorable outing, this tour adds a flavorful layer to any visit to the Big Easy.